Letter: The fight to save Warren Haven is not over

To the editor:
When The Coalition to Save Warren Haven set out to petition to place a non-binding referendum question on the November 2014 ballot, we didn’t know what to expect. The terrain was unfamiliar, the task before us daunting. We were intimidated by the prospect of approaching strangers, explaining our cause in seconds, hoping somehow to engage minds and hearts to elicit a precious response: a legal voting name, signature, and address.

As the hours turned to days, we became braver and bolder, asking: “Are you from Warren County? Are you a registered voter?” Some wanted more information, which we supplied. A few felt “the people have no business weighing in on such an issue.” Though this puzzled us, we moved on, doggedly pursuing signatures of registered voters who agreed the sale of any county-owned facility deserved the opinion of the people.

We learned something vital during this initiative: Warren Haven’s roots run deep. During hundreds of hours logged all over Warren County, we talked with citizens from countless walks of life: seniors, veterans, parents, children, farmers, laborers, union members.

Over and over, we heard: “My mother was at Warren Haven.” My cousin worked at Warren Haven,” “My father was at Warren Haven.” “I had a friend at Warren Haven.” And most memorably: “My mother, grandmother and great-grandmother all died at Warren Haven.”

Your stories, anecdotes and recollections have, quite simply, overwhelmed us. As has the realization that one small facility, built in difficult post-war years via a non-binding referendum question, has touched so many lives in just 62 years. We heard it over and over: “the nurses, the care, the cleanliness.” Again and again, praises were sung to this modest facility, with its incomparable community of caring, and unsurpassed skilled nursing care.

We learned another thing during this initiative: in times of crisis people find the angel of their better nature. House-bound shut-ins called us for petition sheets and people across party lines. Mayors and police chiefs weighed in, nurses, and current and former County employees. The county came together in an unprecedented way to put their names to this question. To tell the Freeholders: “I want to weigh in on Warren Haven.” “I want to say yes or no about Warren Haven.” “I have been impacted by Warren Haven.” “I don’t want to lose Warren Haven.”

Now, we want to say this. To the 3,262 people who listened to us, chatted with us, engaged us, and - in many wonderful cases - seized pens from us, and grabbed petitions, eager to sign, it’s been a rare privilege to meet you. You inspired and renewed us, giving us hope when we were doubtful and encouragement when we flagged; for all this, we thank you.

Sadly, despite this overwhelming support of the public at large, the Board of Chosen Freeholders of Warren County decided on Aug. 13, that your 3,262 voices aren’t important enough to put this question on the November ballot.

You heard us, and took the time to sign your name to save Warren Haven. It’s not over as long as you keep talking, and never forget that your voice matters, especially come Election Day.

We will continue to gather signatures. Because we still believe that Democracy is alive and well in Warren County. Despite what the Freeholders may say.